4 tips for ECTs in the first weeks of term
We know that when you’re an ECT, being in the classroom on your own can feel like a daunting prospect, so here are our top tips to help you in your first weeks of teaching.
1. Just teach
It's easy to feel overwhelmed at the idea of going into the classroom and getting to know your class – but the best way to get to know your pupils and their abilities is by teaching real lessons.
Getting into a routine is also helpful for the pupils who may struggle most, and setting the bar high from the outset gets you on the right path from day one.
2. Ask questions
You might feel that now you’ve finished your initial training and you’re teaching your own class, you should know everything. But remember when you tell your pupils that no question is silly? That applies to you, too.
Colleagues may look busy as they settle into the new term – but remember that every one of them was new to teaching once, too. So don’t be afraid to ask questions when you need to.
It's also important to make the most of your mentor, too. Remember they’re there to help you, and meetings with your mentor are a great chance to ask questions.
3. Create connections
Getting to know your colleagues is vitally important in your first couple of weeks, so spend some time in the staffroom.
While it can feel daunting to walk in as a new member of staff, you’ll quickly get used to how things work – and as in point 2, if there’s anything you’re unsure of, just ask.
The same goes for your pupils: take the time to talk to pupils on your break duties and plan to eat lunch with them at least once a week. Letting children see that you care about them will go a long way in building indispensable classroom relationships.
It’s also important to get to know the other members of staff that help to make a school tick. Meet your caretaker and office staff – they are knowledgeable and important members of the school community.
4. Avoid being an entertainer
Remember that while building relationships with your pupils is important, you should also maintain authority – and remember, you are ultimately their teacher. The best way to connect with pupils isn’t by entertaining them, but to create a classroom where everyone can be excited about learning.
As an ECT, your enthusiasm is often what fuels you, and the way you teach is what will build your identity at school and help pupils get to know you.
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Originally published September 2018, updated August 2026
Taken from a Tes Magazine article written by Sarah Wright